Shore Leadership

The Shore Leadership program offers executives, managers and leaders on Maryland’s Eastern Shore the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the issues and challenges facing our region. Led by facilitators, Carol Graser & Dr. Joe Thomas, participants are guided through skill-building activities and conversation to foster collaboration and problem-solving. A measurable impact on the expansion of personal and professional networks among the class participants is an inevitable outcome. Our History Since 1997, the Shore Leadership program has been facilitating positive change and enhancing the quality of life on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Through the development of a broad base of leaders and a network of private-public partnerships, Shore Leadership fosters shared ownership and a regional approach to regional issues. Through face-to-face discussions with community leaders and experts from organizations and institutions that shape the region’s structure and culture, Shore Leadership participants–which include executives and senior managers from business, governmental, and nonprofit organizations–develop an in-depth understanding of the interrelationships and complexities of the region. Participants meet one day each month at locations throughout the Eastern Shore, beginning with an overnight retreat in April and culminating in a December graduation. A master-certified leadership coach facilitates the sessions, which include leadership development training, as well as focused discussions on topics of regional interest. Topics include aspects of legacy, technology, economic development, community and arts, environment, education, and government. Shore Leadership operates under the Mid-Shore Community Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.